United Way Launches ‘Strong Neighborhoods’ Initiative
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United Way of Allen County is launching Strong Neighborhoods, an initiative it says will help create collaborations and build resources at the neighborhood level. The nonprofit is partnering with Bridge of Grace and the Pettit-Rudisill Neighborhood Association to pilot the initiative in the Pettit-Rudisill neighborhood in Fort Wayne.
United Way says it will collaborate with residents to convene community assets, identify areas for growth, and work to improve the overall well-being of the community.
United Way of Allen County President Matthew Purkey says the effort allows the nonprofit to tackle community issues at a grassroots level.
“We will strategically and intentionally address issues identified by the neighborhood residents and look for opportunities that could align with our four priority areas of educational opportunities, food security, housing stability, and mental health access,” said Purkey. “Ultimately, it is about connecting people to each other and their community.”
The nonprofit says the initiative will help foster strong communities where residents actively participate in developmental decision-making and implementation processes.
“We are excited to partner with United Way and the Pettit-Rudisill neighborhood to share our knowledge, lived experience, and work together to gather the strengths and voices of residents so they may gain ownership and participate in the revitalization of their own community,” said Bridge of Grace founder Javier Mondragon.